Wh-questlons are seeking some kind of specific Information and so require an answer other than yes or no, Such questions are sometimes known as open questions because they allow the person replying to the question a wider choice of answer than other questions do | What about taking the train instead of driving Good idea That li be much less tiring. What about another drink No thanks. It s time I went home. You can also use how about. instead of what about. in informal contexts to make a suggestion How about spending Christmas with us what are you doing with . You use what are you doing with . when you want to express surprise or annoyance that someone is in possession of something or at the use that they are putting it to What are you doing with that computer It belongs to Jim and he hates other people using it. What are you doing with those cups They re Mum s best china and she only uses them on special occasions. what can I do for you You can use what can I do for you to ask in an Informal context in what way you can help someone Good morning Mrs Brown What cc do for you today I d iike a small chicken and a kilo of pork sausages please. Hi Jane. I m calling to ask if you can do me a favour. Hi Sue. I ll help if I can. What can I d In more formal contexts how can I help you is used Cood morning sir. How can I help you I d like three large white handkerchiefs please. for you May I speak to the owner of the house please I m the owner of the house and I m in a hurry. Whaf can I do for you Using wh-words to ask questions 45 what do you mean . 1 You use what do you mean . when you want to indicate often in surprise shock or anger that you do not understand exactly what someone is suggesting What do you mean Jim s gone I saw him at his desk this morning. He s left the company. He handed in his notice at lunch time and left immediately What do you mean you thought it would be OK to borrow my car You said I could borrow it occasionally But not without asking me first. 2 You can also use what do you mean . when you are expressing annoyance or anger at something someone has said or done What do you mean by interrupting the meeting 1 had a message for you. The message wasn t important what do you think you are doing You use what do .
